Intersensory Perception | Psychology for UPSC Optional (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

In this article, the focus will be on exploring the intriguing concepts of extrasensory perception (ESP) and intersensory perception. The article aims to delve into the definition of extrasensory perception, examine its various types, discuss notable examples, and shed light on the symptoms and signs associated with this phenomenon. Additionally, the article will touch upon intersensory perception, highlighting its role in integrating information from multiple sensory sources. By the end, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of extrasensory perception and its distinctiveness from intersensory perception.

Extrasensory Perception

The definition of extrasensory perception has long been a subject of debate among experts in neuroscience and psychology. Many individuals have reported experiences where they sense that certain events occur by mere coincidence. For instance, you might think of a specific person and receive a text message from them moments later.
These occurrences, as well as instances of predicting the future, are commonly associated with extrasensory perception. Notable figures like Nostradamus, who made accurate predictions ahead of his time in the 16th century, have further fueled interest in this phenomenon. Books, movies, and various media have explored and depicted extrasensory perception extensively.
Parapsychology, a field of study, investigates extraordinary situations and experiences. It encompasses two branches: psychokinesis and extrasensory phenomena. Psychokinesis refers to events that occur without the involvement of any living beings, while extrasensory perception involves perceptions or impressions that our brains receive or communications that occur without engaging the typical sensory organs.
Extrasensory perception can be further classified into three categories:

• Precognition: The knowledge of future events without any logical explanation.
• Clairvoyance: Awareness of unknown objects or materials without prior knowledge or contact.
• Telepathy: Communication between two individuals who are physically separated.

Intersensory Perception

Intersensory perception revolves around the coordination of information obtained through distinct sensory modalities, resulting in an integrated experience. This process involves transmitting information from one sensory source to the association cortex, where it can be combined with information from other sensory sources. Intersensory perception plays a crucial role in tasks that require coordination between two or more sensorimotor activities.

Symptoms and Signs of Extrasensory Perception

Each category of extrasensory perception presents unique signs and symptoms, highlighting their distinctive nature:

• Precognition: Individuals with precognitive experiences may possess either vague or crystal-clear knowledge about future events and sequences. These experiences can occur during both waking and dreaming states. However, studies suggest that precognitive experiences tend to be unpleasant, causing feelings of nervousness and depression.
• Telepathy: Telepathic communication is often observed between individuals who share a close bond, such as friends, family members, or married couples. This form of communication involves unexplained exchanges without the use of sensory organs. Emotions play a significant role in telepathic experiences, which may also manifest as physical symptoms. Despite lacking scientific backing, these symptoms and experiences remain intriguing.
  

Diagnosing Extrasensory Perception

Researchers have developed two primary methods for diagnosing extrasensory perception:

• Mind Reading: Introduced by J.B. Rhine in 1930, mind reading involves forced-choice experiments. Participants are asked to guess specific information, such as cards, symbols, numbers, or alphabets, which have been observed or examined by the experimenter.
• Free-Response Studies: These experiments induce dream-like or hallucinatory states in individuals, facilitating exploration of extrasensory perception.

It is worth noting that heightened states of extrasensory perception can lead individuals to believe that the world operates under specific paranormal behaviors, a notion that warrants further investigation.

Treatment for Extrasensory Perception

Given that extrasensory perception often results in unpleasant experiences, certain treatment approaches are available:

• Psychiatric Counselling: Individuals experiencing extrasensory perception are often unable to articulate their unusual experiences clearly. Psychiatrists categorize extrasensory perception into two types based on patient evaluations:
• Precognition: Psychiatrists aim to understand the precognitive nature of patients' experiences and verify the accuracy of foreseen events. They also strive to prevent patients from blaming themselves for unforeseen disastrous events.
• Telepathy: Psychiatrists may inquire about emotional traumas or close relationships when patients report experiencing physical symptoms similar to those of someone close to them.

Subliminal Awareness

Theories of subliminal awareness propose that fundamental awareness transcends the temporal limits of the specious present, allowing individuals access to a broader range of information. While conventional beliefs assume awareness within a specific temporal range, these theories suggest that a wider temporal scope is available to individuals.

Conclusion

This article has provided an in-depth exploration of extrasensory perception and intersensory perception, highlighting their distinctions. By discussing different types of extrasensory perception, diagnosing methods, and treatment options, readers have gained a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing phenomenon. Additionally, the article touched upon subliminal awareness and its differentiation from immediate awareness. By familiarizing themselves with the concept of extrasensory perception, readers can better comprehend its meaning and significance.